IKEA is Now Selling Solar Panels

IKEA is trying to set a precedent this month by committing to renewable energy. The Swedish furniture giant has announced a collaboration with Solarcentury that will give way to a series of batteries and solar panels for home use. The two brands are hoping to make these products more affordable for customers everywhere, but the release will be limited to U.K. stores for the time being. Should the solar items prove popular, there may be talks of expansion throughout IKEA franchises around the globe.

According to a press release, owning and operating green panels from IKEA could cut home electricity bills by seventy percent. Traditionally, these panels have been known to be a bit costly, but with IKEA’s retail reach, the new items would certainly be more accessible and have a competitive price tag.

Speaking with media outlets earlier today, Solarcentury head, Susannah Wood, made her company’s mission statement clear and emphasized the affordability of new models. “We’re committed to helping homeowners reap the benefits of going solar and our business partnership with IKEA is a significant step forwards for the renewable energy industry. The cost of solar installations has dropped considerably in recent years and is in fact 100 times cheaper than it was 35 years ago.”

IKEA says that purchasing a set of solar panels and batteries will cost British buyers a few thousand pounds, but thankfully, it’s an investment that is projected to be recouped in a little over a decade. To find out more about the initiative, visit Solarcentury’s website here. You can also watch IKEA discuss their solar energy plan from an official video posted onto YouTube last September.

Aidan is a writer from Toronto. His favourite things in the world are music, movies, and mini dachshunds. Give him a follow on Twitter at @aidandaoust, where he’ll also accept your mixtape submissions.